Last updated on August 15 2026
A CPF card (Cadastro de Pessoas Físicas) is an 11-digit taxpayer identification number issued by Brazil’s Federal Revenue Service (Receita Federal). It functions similarly to a Social Security Number in the U.S. or a National Insurance Number in the UK, identifying individuals in the Brazilian tax system. However, the CPF is used far beyond just taxes – virtually every significant transaction in Brazil (from banking to property purchases) requires it. Importantly, foreigners can obtain a CPF even without residing in Brazil, and each person can have only one unique CPF number for life. In this guide, we’ll explain what a CPF is, why it’s important, and how foreigners can get a CPF number in Brazil or abroad, with a special focus on making the process easy and accessible.
About Brasil Tax
Brasil Tax is a 100% online Brazilian tax consultancy specializing in international tax matters involving Brazil. We help foreigners and international clients navigate their Brazilian tax obligations, whether they live, work, own property, receive income, or invest in Brazil. Our team has supported more than 5,200 clients across 40+ countries with matters including Brazilian income tax (IRPF), CPF registration, rental income, investments, real estate, tax residency, and tax regularization.
If you’re navigating Brazil’s tax and financial system as a foreigner, having the correct CPF procedures in place is essential — especially before investing, opening accounts, or filing taxes. Get in touch with Brasil Tax for expert guidance on CPF registration, compliance, and how it impacts your investments and obligations in Brazil.
What Is a CPF Number in Brazil?
CPF stands for Cadastro de Pessoas Físicas, which translates to “Natural Persons Register.” It is essentially the individual taxpayer identification number in Brazil. The CPF consists of 11 digits and is issued by Receita Federal (the Brazilian federal tax authority). You can think of it as the Brazilian equivalent of a tax ID or social security number used to identify people in official records.
Originally, CPF numbers were printed on blue plastic cards (as shown above), but today physical cards are no longer issued – you will receive just the number (which you should keep in a safe place) and can print a certificate if needed. Once issued, a CPF number is permanent and unique to the individual; it does not change and you cannot have more than one. Even foreigners who don’t live in Brazil are eligible to get a CPF for purposes like property ownership or business, as long as they provide the required information.
Why Do You Need a CPF in Brazil?
Almost everything in Brazil requires a CPF if you plan to do more than short-term tourism. All Brazilian citizens and any foreigner residing in or doing business in Brazil must have a CPF – it’s mandatory for numerous activities. Here are some common scenarios where a CPF number is needed or extremely useful:
- Opening a bank account: Banks will ask for your CPF to open an account or provide financial services.
- Buying or renting property: It is legally required to have a CPF to purchase real estate in Brazil. Landlords will also request your CPF for rental contracts.
- Starting a business or working: If you intend to work in Brazil or open a company, a CPF is necessary for registering with authorities and signing official documents. Employers and universities may require it for enrollment or hiring paperwork.
- Utilities and services: To get utility services (electricity, phone, internet) or even to buy a mobile SIM card, companies often ask for a CPF number. Many online stores and even in-person retailers request a CPF at checkout or on receipts. For example, e-commerce websites, ticket purchases, and even doctors or hospitals might ask for your CPF for registration.
- Financial transactions and taxes: A CPF is required for paying taxes, filing tax returns, or making any significant financial transaction in Brazil. If you generate income in Brazil (through work, investments, rental income, etc.), you’ll use your CPF to report and pay taxes.
In summary, any foreigner planning to spend considerable time in Brazil, invest, or engage in legal/financial activities will find it nearly impossible to get by without a CPF. Even where it’s not strictly mandatory, you’ll be routinely asked for it as a form of identification in everyday situations. (On the other hand, if you’re just visiting Brazil as a short-term tourist and not doing things like opening bank accounts or buying property, you technically don’t need a CPF. But even tourists staying more than a few weeks often get one because it makes life easier for things like SIM cards and online bookings.)
Important: Obtaining a CPF does not automatically make you a tax resident of Brazil or subject you to Brazilian taxes by itself. Tax residency is determined by other factors (like the number of days you stay in Brazil per year and whether you have Brazilian-source income) – so you can have a CPF and still be a non-resident for tax purposes. The CPF is simply an identification number for individuals in the tax system and is used when you do have tax obligations or other registrations in Brazil.
Need help with your CPF or Brazilian tax situation?
Getting a CPF in Brazil is often just the first step. If you’re a foreigner dealing with investments, property, income in Brazil, or tax residency questions, Brasil Tax can help you stay compliant and avoid costly mistakes. Our team specializes in Brazilian tax and administrative support for foreigners and expats worldwide.
👉 Get in touch with Brasil Tax to receive clear, personalized guidance for your situation.
How to Get a CPF Number in Brazil (Step-by-Step)
Getting a CPF as a foreigner is usually a straightforward process, and it’s free of charge in most cases. The steps will differ slightly depending on whether you are applying from outside Brazil or while you’re in Brazil. Below we outline both scenarios:
Applying for a CPF in Brazil (In Person)
If you are already in Brazil, you can apply for a CPF in person. Here’s how:
- Fill out the online CPF application form: The Brazilian Federal Revenue has an online form for CPF registration (Cadastro de Pessoas Físicas). You can access it on the Receita Federal website. The form will ask for personal details (name, date of birth, parents’ names, etc.). If the form is only in Portuguese, you might seek help with translation. After filling it out and submitting, print the confirmation page or note the protocol number. (If you cannot submit online for some reason, you can also fill out a paper form at the office, but doing it online in advance can save time.)
- Gather required documents: A valid passport is mandatory as identification for foreigners. It’s also recommended to have your birth certificate (especially if you want your parents’ names included in the CPF record). If you have a Brazilian visa or immigration document, bring that as well. In most cases, you do not need a Brazilian ID (RG) or voter title – leave the voter ID field blank on the form if asked. You should also have a local address (they might ask for a Brazilian address for contact purposes, so have one ready, though formal proof of address may not always be required for CPF).
- Go to an authorized location to submit the application: In Brazil, you have a couple of options to submit your CPF request:
- At a Receita Federal office: This is the tax authority’s office. Going directly to a Receita Federal (RFB) office is free and they can process your CPF on the spot or within a short time. This is often the best option if one is nearby.
- At a partner agency (convenience option): Many post offices (Correios), Banco do Brasil branches, and Caixa Econômica Federal branches, as well as certain notary publics (cartórios), can also process CPF applications for foreigners. These places are authorized to collect your information and issue a CPF. Note: If you apply through a bank, post office, or notary, there is a small service fee (about R$7 Brazilian reais) for the application. This fee is modest (roughly equivalent to a couple of US dollars) and you pay it at the counter. Be sure to bring cash in reais just in case.
- Submit your documents and form: At the location, tell them you want to “cadastrar um CPF como estrangeiro” (register a CPF as a foreigner). You will provide your passport (they may take a copy) and the completed form or the protocol number from your online application. You’ll also provide the Brazilian address you’re using (and in some cases, they might ask for a proof of address, though this requirement can vary – many foreigners use a friend’s address or hotel address). Pay the fee if you are at a bank/post office. The staff will process your request in the system.
- Receive your CPF number: In many cases, your CPF number is issued immediately or within the same day. The agent might give you a printout or a receipt that contains your new 11-digit CPF number. This is your official CPF registration confirmation. Keep this in a safe place and make a copy of the number. No physical card is given at this stage (Brazil stopped issuing plastic cards for CPF), but you can later download an official CPF card or certificate online. If for some reason the number isn’t given on the spot, the office will inform you of how it will be delivered (sometimes via email or for pickup). Usually, though, it’s very fast when done in person.
Processing time: When done in person in Brazil, getting a CPF is often same-day. Generally, the whole process takes only a few days at most, and often the number is issued immediately or within 1 business day. Official guidance suggests CPF processing is quick, but if there are backlogs it could take up to a week or two. (For instance, one source notes that the process usually takes around 10 business days in some cases, but many foreigners report much faster turnaround when applying in person.)
Applying for a CPF from Outside Brazil (Consulate/Online)
If you are not in Brazil, you can still get your CPF through a Brazilian embassy or consulate in your country. As of late 2023, Brazil’s government requires foreigners abroad to go through consular offices for CPF applications (they phased out the old purely-email application route). Here’s how to proceed if you’re a foreigner outside Brazil:
- Contact your nearest Brazilian consulate: Find the Brazilian consulate or embassy that has jurisdiction over your area. Most consulates have information on their website about CPF for foreigners. Many now use an e-consular system for applications. This means you will likely need to create an account on the Brazilian government’s e-consular portal and select the service for “CPF registration for foreigners.”
- Fill out the online CPF form: Just like the in-person process, you fill out the CPF application form electronically (there may be a link provided by the consulate, which goes to the Receita Federal form online). Complete the form with your personal details. Once submitted, a protocol or confirmation page will be generated – print it out or save the number.
- Upload required documents: Through the e-consular platform, you will be asked to upload scans of your documents for pre-approval. Typically, the documents include:
- Your passport identification page (scan in PDF or JPG format).
- Your birth certificate (showing your parents’ names). This is used to record your mother’s and father’s name in the CPF registry. If the certificate is not in Portuguese or English, you might need a translated copy. Some consulates require this especially for minors.
- For minors: If you are applying for a child under 16, the child must be accompanied by a parent or guardian who has a CPF (if the parent is Brazilian). The parent’s ID (and CPF, if applicable) would be needed. Minors should also have a birth certificate with parental info.
- Proof of address may be requested in some cases (to determine which consulate is appropriate). Check the consulate instructions – some require a proof of your residence in their jurisdiction.
- Any other form the consulate might ask (for example, some consulates have a one-page CPF request form to sign).
- Schedule an appointment: Once your online submission is reviewed and approved by consular staff, you will usually need to schedule an in-person appointment at the consulate. This appointment is for you to present the original documents and sign the paperwork. Using the e-consular system, select a date/time available and confirm your appointment slot.
- Attend the consulate appointment: On the appointment day, go to the consulate with all the original documents you uploaded (passport, birth certificate, etc.). At the consulate, you will sign the CPF registration form (they might have it printed from your online submission). The consular officer will verify your documents. There is no fee for CPF service at Brazilian consulates – it’s provided free of charge. The process is usually quick; often, they will issue your CPF number during the appointment or shortly after.
- Get your CPF number: In many cases, the CPF number will be generated on the same day as your consular visit. The consulate may give you a document or receipt with the new CPF number. If not immediate, they will inform you how it will be sent to you (some consulates might email you the number or ask you to return to pick it up, but this is rare). According to official information, when you apply through a consulate and attend your appointment, you can receive the CPF number that day.
Need help with your CPF or Brazilian tax situation?
Getting a CPF in Brazil is often just the first step. If you’re a foreigner dealing with investments, property, income in Brazil, or tax residency questions, Brasil Tax can help you stay compliant and avoid costly mistakes. Our team specializes in Brazilian tax and administrative support for foreigners and expats worldwide.
👉 Get in touch with Brasil Tax to receive clear, personalized guidance for your situation.
After you have your CPF, you can always verify it or print a certificate online. The Receita Federal’s “Meu CPF” portal allows you to check your CPF status (which should show as regular) and print out an official CPF registration document for your records. This can serve as proof of your CPF when needed.
Tip: The CPF number itself is what you will use moving forward – memorizing it or keeping it handy (for example, saved in your phone’s notes) is practical. Brazilian entities will accept just the number; you rarely need to show a physical card. If someone asks for your CPF, you can simply provide the 11-digit number.
Note for Representatives: If you cannot go in person (either to a Receita office in Brazil or a consulate abroad), it is possible to authorize someone to get a CPF on your behalf. For example, you could grant power of attorney to a lawyer or a trusted person in Brazil to handle the CPF application for you. They would then follow similar steps in Brazil to obtain the number. This can be useful if you need a CPF for a transaction but cannot physically be present. Professional services and law firms in Brazil often assist foreign clients with CPF registration as part of investment or property purchase processes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about CPF in Brazil
- What is a CPF number, and why is it important?
A CPF number is an 11-digit individual taxpayer identification number in Brazil (Cadastro de Pessoas Físicas). It is important because it’s required for most financial, legal, and everyday activities in Brazil, such as opening bank accounts, buying property, signing contracts, getting a mobile phone, and paying taxes. For foreigners, having a CPF makes it much easier to do things like invest in property or conduct business in Brazil. Essentially, it’s a universal ID for individuals in the Brazilian system. - Do foreigners need a CPF to travel to or visit Brazil?
Short-term visitors (tourists) do not need a CPF to enter Brazil or to simply travel as a tourist. You can do basic things like hotel check-ins or using your credit card with just your passport. However, if you plan to stay for an extended period or engage in certain purchases, having a CPF is highly recommended. Even tourists often find a CPF handy for buying domestic flight tickets, concert tickets, SIM cards, or online shopping in Brazil, where the forms may ask for a CPF. In summary, you can visit Brazil without a CPF, but if you’re spending more than a few weeks and want to fully participate in Brazilian life (from mundane things like store loyalty programs to major things like renting an apartment), getting a CPF is very useful. - Can I get a CPF if I’m not a Brazilian citizen and not a resident?
Yes. You do not need to be a Brazilian citizen or have residency to obtain a CPF. Foreigners can apply for a CPF from abroad via Brazilian consulates or in Brazil while on any visa (even on a tourist visa). The CPF is often one of the first things foreigners get if they plan on doing anything substantial in Brazil. For example, foreign investors, students, or spouses of Brazilians will all apply for CPF even before they have any residency status. It’s a straightforward process open to anyone who needs it. - How long does it take to get a CPF number?
The timeframe can vary. If done in person (at a Receita Federal office in Brazil or at a consulate appointment), you often receive the CPF number the same day or within 1–2 days. In cases where the request is submitted and processed (for example, via the consulate’s online system or by mail), it might take a bit longer. Generally, sources indicate it’s usually processed within about 5–10 business days at most. Many foreigners who applied by email or online have reported getting their number in under a week. To be safe, allow up to two weeks if you’re doing it via a slower channel, but often it’s very quick. - How much does it cost to get a CPF?
It’s usually free. There is no government fee for issuing a CPF for either Brazilians or foreigners. If you apply at a Brazilian consulate or directly at a Receita Federal office, you won’t pay anything. The only time you might pay a fee is if you use a partner agency in Brazil like a bank or post office, which charge a service fee (around R$7 reais) for processing the application. This is a convenience fee, not a government charge. So, if you want to avoid any cost, simply apply through the Receita office or consulate. - What documents are required for a CPF application?
The primary document is a valid passport (for foreigners). You will also fill out the CPF registration form with personal details. In addition, having a birth certificate is helpful (and required for minors) to record your parents’ names on the CPF registry. If applying abroad, the consulate might ask for proof of address in your country to ensure you’re in their jurisdiction. If the foreign documents (like a birth certificate) are not in Portuguese or English, you might need an official translation or an Apostille, depending on the consulate. Generally, for adults: passport and the completed form suffice in most cases. For minors: passport, birth certificate, and presence of a parent/guardian (with that parent’s ID/CPF if they have one) are needed. - Does having a CPF mean I have to pay taxes in Brazil or become a tax resident?
No. Getting a CPF does not by itself make you a tax resident of Brazil. It also doesn’t mean you owe any taxes. It’s simply an identification number. You will only have tax obligations in Brazil if you meet the criteria to be a tax resident (for example, spending more than 183 days a year in Brazil, or having certain types of income from Brazilian sources) or if you acquire assets/income that trigger tax filings. Many foreigners obtain a CPF to buy property or invest, but remain tax non-residents — they just use the CPF for those specific transactions. Think of the CPF as enabling you to be “on the system” when you need to be, but it doesn’t by itself impose any tax filing unless you actually have taxable activities or stay long-term. Always consult a tax professional if you’re unsure, but the CPF is just an ID number. - Can I use my CPF for everyday purchases and services once I have it?
Yes. Once you have a CPF, you can and should use it for various purposes. For example, when you sign up for a loyalty program at a supermarket, they might ask for CPF. When you buy something online from a Brazilian website, you’ll provide your CPF at checkout (there’s usually a field for it). When paying for a big purchase in a store, the cashier might ask if you want your CPF on the invoice (this is related to a tax rebate program; you can say yes and provide the number). Having a CPF essentially opens up full access to services: you can get a mobile SIM registered to your name, open bank accounts, take out a loan, etc., all using the CPF as your identification in those systems. Just remember to protect your CPF number and don’t lend it to others – treat it somewhat like you would treat a Social Security Number in terms of privacy. - What should I do after I get my CPF?
Once you have your CPF number, it’s a good idea to check its status online at the Receita Federal website (use the “Consulta CPF” service) to ensure it’s active and in regular status. It should show as “regular” (meaning no issues). No further action is required unless you later change some personal information (like your name or address) that you want to update in the CPF registry, or if you become a resident and need to include it in tax filings. If you move to Brazil, you might eventually get a Brazilian ID card (RG or foreign resident ID), but you will still keep the same CPF number. It’s also wise to memorize the number or keep it written down securely, since you will use it often. There is an option to print a CPF card or certificate from the Receita Federal website if you want a physical document for peace of mind, but it’s not obligatory. - Will my CPF ever expire or need renewal?
No, the CPF number does not expire. It is a lifelong registration. There is no need to renew it annually. However, it’s important to keep your CPF status regular. If you never use it or never had any tax declarations, it typically stays fine. In the past, Brazil required an annual income tax declaration or a statement of exempt status to keep CPF regular for residents, but as a non-resident with no Brazilian income, you usually don’t have to file anything. Just ensure that if you do have obligations (like you bought property and need to file a declaration of assets, or you became a resident), you comply so your CPF doesn’t get suspended. If a CPF goes “suspenso” (suspended) due to missing information or noncompliance, it can be reactivated by updating your records or filing any required forms. In short, the number itself is permanent – just keep it in good standing by updating any required info if asked. - What if I lose or forget my CPF number?
Since no physical card is issued by default, make sure you record your CPF number in a safe place. If you do lose it or forget it, you can recover it. In Brazil, you could go to a Receita Federal office to retrieve your CPF information (with your passport for identification). Brazilian consulates abroad generally cannot look up your CPF for you due to privacy laws, so if you’re abroad and lost the number, you may need to contact the Receita Federal through their online platforms or a representative in Brazil to help retrieve it. The CPF lookup online (Consulta CPF) requires the number itself to check status, so it won’t help if you completely lost the number. It’s best to avoid this scenario by keeping a digital and physical note of the CPF once you get it.
Getting a CPF in Brazil is often just the first step. If you’re a foreigner dealing with investments, property, income in Brazil, or tax residency questions, Brasil Tax can help you stay compliant and avoid costly mistakes. Our team specializes in Brazilian tax and administrative support for foreigners and expats worldwide.
👉 Get in touch with Brasil Tax to receive clear, personalized guidance for your situation.
Further reading:
Carnê-Leão in Brazil: A Tax Guide for Foreigners and Expats
Brazil’s Double Taxation Agreements (DTAs) and Tax Treaty Rules for Expats in Brazil
CNPJ Brazil: What Is a CNPJ Number and How to Get One
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